Customs intercepts smuggled goods worth N1.8bn in Oyo/Ogun command

By Bushrah Adeshina, Ibadan

The Oyo/Ogun Command of the Nigerian Custom Services has reported the interception of smuggled goods, bags of rice, petroleum motor spirit (PMS), used clothes, and Indian hemp, all amounting to N1,890,022,931.00 between January 19th and February 2024.

Moreover, the authorities confiscated counterfeit pharmaceuticals with a total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N1,739,000,000.00 (one billion, seven hundred and thirty-nine million naira) this year, 2024. The interception took place in the Bakatari area of Omi-Adio, Ibadan.

The Area Controller, Ben Oramalugo said, “For the period of 19th January to February, 2024, the command has intercepted and seized the following contraband goods, foreign parboiled rice 345 (50kg) bags, worth N24,218,000.00, Premium Motor Spirit, PMS, 344 (25 litres) kegs, worth N5,728,500.00, Indian Hemp, 4 wraps (4 Kilograms), worth N126, 000.00, Used tyres, 1309 pieces, worth N70, 140,000,00, used clothing and shoes, 45 sacks/, 8 sacks/9 sacks, bales, worth N32,400,000.00/N10, 320, 000,00.

“Fake Pharmaceuticals, Augmentin Tablet, (625mg), 7 sacks, worth N819,000,000,00, Ampiclox, 22 sacks, worth N440,000,000,00, Amoxicillin Capsules, 24 sacks, worth N480,000,000,00, foreign wine, 34 cartons, 5 bottles, worth, N6,231,206,00, foreign vegetable oil, 40 bottles (5 litres), worth, N1,760,000,00, 21 bottles (1 litre), worth N99,225,00, totaling N1,890,022,931.00.”

He, however, reiterated the command’s effort towards the fight against ongoing economic difficulties by supporting the federal government to enhance food security in the country.

“Once again, we would like to reiterate that all borders within the command area of responsibility are still closed due to federal government policy on border closure, and as such, command officers remain vigilant and dedicated to preventing the snuggling of items that could compromise the health and well-being of our citizens,” Oramalugo stated.